Networking
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The following is a synopsis of the Networking Skillset.
Next to preparing a distinctive and effective resume, developing a fully functioning Network is a vital skillset for your job-hunting program.
A fully functioning Network promotes the development of the following skills:
- An expanded field of vision and a growing set of possibilities for your next job
- Practice in presenting yourself to strangers
- Confidence for all upcoming job interviews
- Presenting your vision and character, as well as your experience, skillsets, and accomplishments
- Developing an ongoing professional network in your present and future discipline or profession.
Expanded Vision
As you progress in developing your networking skills, you introduce yourself to a growing number of referrals who give you access to new and previously unknown job possibilities, providing you are open to suggestions and leads. More than half the clients I have coached have landed jobs they never considered before they began networking.
Meeting Strangers
Networking gives you access to individuals you are referred to by people you already know. They are in various industries and companies, and often involved in diverse levels and unfamiliar disciplines. Networking supplies experience and raises your confidence level when you put yourself in new environments with people you don’t know.
Confidence for the Job Interview
Networking prepares you for presenting yourself professionally, answering questions presented by a stranger, and demonstrating your personal qualities and character. Networking starts with people you know, who then refer you to their common friends or associates. This makes the referral meetings more casual than ones with total strangers.
You are the host in a networking meeting, and you take the lead in presenting yourself and your professional goals. You are asking for help with information, advice, and referrals to people who can add to your research and further your individual connections.
Presenting Your Three Key Strengths
Incorporating your Three Key Strengths into your presentation is my recurring advice throughout the development of your job-hunting plan. Demonstrating your understanding of the big picture, creating effective working relationships, and incorporating your work ethics – your three key strengths – represents how you complete the work you do.
Creating Your Professional Network
Throughout the course of delivering your job-hunting marketing plan, you develop a network of individuals with vastly different disciplines and industry backgrounds. Along the way, you become comfortable with reaching out and sharing information with those you meet. Keep in mind that most of the people you are referred to will demonstrate a willingness to assist you without hesitation.
Many individuals you meet through networking remain in your contact list and continue to be a source for exchanging information and new ideas, whether they are in your current or prior discipline. I encourage you to build a professional network in your new line of work. It starts now, as part of your effective networking plan.
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